Life In The Freezer

Antarctica: the fabled White Continent, one of the world’s last remaining wilderness regions. It is an untamed territory of wild, natural beauty, as well as a land of superlatives: the world’s fifth largest continent, the coldest place on earth, with the highest average altitude and the lowest humidity. The continent is devoid of a permanent human population, although what it lacks in the human factor, it more than makes up for in mammals, birds, marinelife and scenery.

Leaving the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia, the MV Ushuaia cruises through the Beagle Channel and on through the ocean towards the infamous Drake Passage, home to a phenomenal variety of seabirds and a fantastic opportunity for whale spotting. Along the way Zodiac expeditions explore the geology, history and geography of the area.

South Shetland Islands are a haven for several species of penguin (Gentoo are pictured, left, with two Chinstraps), Antarctic fur seals, cormorants and petrels, as well as killer and humpback whales, and hot springs for those who fancy an al fresco spa. Sailing through iceberg-strewn waterways past gleaming turquoise glaciers, the first glimpse of this utterly unique land is the rugged grey and black mountains of the pristine and spectacular Antarctica Peninsula. At this time of year the frozen continent is enjoying its austral spring, a time for breeding as the days lengthen. When the UK is at its wintry darkest, these penguins will be sunbathing in 24-hour days.

Getting there Kumuka offers 11-day sailings from the port of Ushuaia from November to March, when the sun barely sets. Prices start at £1820.00, including 10 nights twin berth accommodation and all meals on board MV Ushuaia, shore excursions and onboard lectures, all service taxes and port charges.

FLIGHTCHECK:
We offer flights to Ushuaia from £790 return.